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Planning a family getaway, a romantic escape or simply meandering up the coast? Lake Macquarie offers accommodation from absolute indulgence to budget-friendly. Contact us to book your holiday accommodation

Lake Macquarie Visitor Itineraries: Art Trail

Morning: Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery

For visiting art lovers, a stop at the Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery is simply a must-do. This unique regional gallery consistently receives awards for its exciting and dynamic exhibition programming, showcasing the finest Hunter artists and the best national and international touring collections. The gallery is set on extensive leafy grounds. Take some time to wander through the sculpture garden and along the mosaic pathway before wandering over to lunch.

Lunch: Awaba House Café & Restaurant

Historic Awaba House Café Restaurant is located in the Gallery precinct. One of the oldest estates in the area, the house has a long and interesting past, with more than a little intrigue. Enjoy your meal with the tranquil waters of the Lake Macquarie lapping the shore as your backdrop.

Afternoon: Dobell House or Mandalong Gallery

Depending on your artistic preferences, this afternoon can be spent at the quiet lakeside hamlet of Wangi Wangi or in the rural mountainous area of Mandalong.

Dobell House at Wangi Wangi is the former home and studio of esteemed Australian artist, Sir William Dobell. Here, you can gain insight into the Dobell’s later years of life, with his studio preserved in exactly the way he worked. View artworks, audio-visual displays and peaceful views of Wangi Wangi Bay that were often the subject of his later paintings.

If Indigenous artworks are more your passion, head to the Lake Macquarie hinterland and visit Mandalong Gallery. This high-quality gallery features Aboriginal artwork produced locally and further afield, with the passionate owners travelling regularly around the country to obtain new additions. Authentic artwork, investment pieces, craftwork, glassware, didgeridoos and carvings are all for sale.

Another arty idea: Budding artists or those looking to hone their skills may be interested in spending some extra time at the Yara Balba Art Studio. In a unique farm setting far away from any distraction, individuals and groups can learn and develop a multitude of artistic skills including drawing, painting, print-making, sculpture and creating mosaics.

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Welcome to Lake Macquarie

Relax here in beautiful accommodation and escape from the fast pace of life in whatever setting you prefer - beach, lake or mountain. The city’s centrepiece is a vast blue water expanse, twice the size of Sydney Harbour.